Eye in the sky: Foster + Partners envision the City of London’s tallest skyscraper

Foster + Partners have unveiled images for the Tulip Tower, an observatory and event space intended to become the City of London’s next cultural attraction.

The 305-metre skyscraper, which will stand alongside the now iconic Gherkin building, will be an office-free venue, providing panoramic views of the city.

Developed by J. Hafra Group as part of the City Corporation of London’s Cultural Mile public engagement initiative, the complex will feature a number of leisure amenities and facilities, including internal glass slides, gondola pod rides, and a restaurant.

The site will also include a rooftop garden, pocket park, and sky bar.

Speaking on the Tulip Tower, Norman Foster, founder and principal at Foster + Partners said: "Continuing the pioneering design of 30 St Mary Axe, the Tulip is in the spirit of London as a progressive, forward-thinking city.

"It offers significant benefits to Londoners and visitors as a cultural and social landmark with unmatched educational resources for future generations."

If the company’s plans are approved, construction on the landmark could start as early as 2020 with completion projected for 2025.

The Tulip Tower will be slightly shorter than the Shard, the UK's tallest building. / Courtesy of Foster + Partners

Visitors will be able to ride gondola pods and meander around the complex on interconnected sky bridges. / Courtesy of Foster + Partners

Foster + Partners have unveiled images for the Tulip Tower, an observatory and event space intended to become the City of London’s next cultural attraction. The 305-metre skyscraper, which will stand alongside the now iconic Gherkin building, will be an office-free venue, providing panoramic views of the city. Developed by J. Hafra Group as part of the City Corporation of London’s Cultural Mile public engagement initiative, the complex will feature